Hoyer: Republicans Have Repeatedly Walked Away From the Middle-Class

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today in response to comments by Speaker John Boehner yesterday challenging President Obama's commitment to the middle class:

“I am deeply disturbed that Speaker Boehner would falsely charge President Obama with putting politics ahead of the challenges facing middle-class Americans still out of work and their families, and not caring about their situation. He should look very carefully at the history this Congress of the House over which he presides. It tells the story of Republicans walking away again and again from their responsibility to extend unemployment insurance, keep payroll taxes from rising, maintain low interests rates for student loan borrowers, protect Medicare for seniors, and pass comprehensive jobs legislation – like Democrats’ Make It In America plan – that will help put more Americans back to work.

“Now, the Speaker and his Republican colleagues are blocking a middle-class tax cut, holding it hostage to greater tax breaks for the very wealthy and fueling even greater uncertainty for middle-class families. Those same families are still reeling from the over 30 votes Republicans have held to repeal or defund the health reform legislation that will make it easier for them to afford coverage and, for those owning small businesses, to provide insurance to their employees. I think it is abundantly clear to all who have observed the 112th Congress which party has consistently stood up for this country’s middle-class.”